Simon Akeroyd, who has more than 30 gardening books to his name, has detailed a simple hack to transform empty plastic milk cartons into a handy tool for the garden
Alan Johnson Social News Reporter
06:40, 09 May 2026
Simon Akeroyd has a clever use for your empty milk cartons (stock)(Image: Thomas Faull via Getty Images)
As the recycling of our waste becomes increasingly important, a gardening expert has highlighted a clever way of repurposing empty milk cartons. Simon Akeroyd, who has written more than 30 gardening books, demonstrated how such containers can be transformed into a makeshift watering can.
He took to TikTok to share his straightforward step-by-step guide. To begin, push the tip of a biro pen through the milk carton’s lid in several places to create what will serve as the sprinkler head – also referred to as a rose.
Simon then filled the carton with water before screwing the newly-fashioned nozzle back into place. He explained: “The nozzle creates a gentle spray that won’t wash your seeds or tiny seedlings away.”
After demonstrating how easy it is to water your garden from the makeshift holes, he added: “Enjoy your free watering can!”
The tip is particularly useful in May, when many plants need a deep watering as the sun dries out the ground. By putting in the work on your outdoor spaces now, you’ll be able to enjoy the lush greenery when the weather is nice.
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Several TikTok users praised the ingenious idea. One wrote: “This is a great idea to save the water while I’m waiting for the hot tap to run hot.”
A second joked: “Love it. I broke hers by accident, she was fuming and I went and bought another. Could have just done this!”
A third agreed, pondering: “Why didn’t I think of this for watering my seeds instead of stood there for hours spraying them?”
While a fourth TikTok user advised: “I’ve also cut the top section off a few to make funnel with a handle for various different applications… and the lower portion makes a free flower pot or container so two uses from one separated bottle.”
More tips to help your garden thrive in May
1. Water deep, not daily – soak the roots, then let the surface dry a little.
2. Water in the morning – less evaporation, fewer problems than late-night damp.
3. Mulch everything you can – a 5cm layer keeps moisture in and weeds out.
4. Feed containers weekly – pots run out of nutrients fast in spring.
5. Top-dress tired pots – scrape off the top, add fresh compost, then water in.
6. Harden off seedlings – introduce them outdoors gradually for 7–10 days.
7. Don’t rush tender plants – wait until frosts are truly done in your area.
8. Pinch out for bushier growth – especially bedding plants and herbs.
9. Stake early – supports are easier before plants get tall and floppy.
10. Weed little and often – small weeds are quick; big weeds are a workout.
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